Items filtered by date: August 2025

When the common peroneal nerve is injured, it can disrupt the way the foot and leg move or feel. This nerve runs along the outer side of the knee and down the leg, carrying signals that control certain muscles and sensations. Damage can occur from trauma, prolonged pressure, or underlying health issues. People may notice weakness when lifting the foot, numbness, or a tingling sensation along the shin and top of the foot. In some cases, walking becomes difficult due to a condition often called foot drop. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent long term complications. Management may include targeted exercises, bracing, or addressing the cause of the nerve injury. Paying attention to persistent changes in strength or sensation is important. If these symptoms develop, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

  • Numbness
  • Sensation loss
  • Prickling and tingling sensations
  • Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
  • Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 19 August 2025 00:00

Types and Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the feet and toes, producing symptoms such as red, flaky, or cracked skin, especially between the toes or on the soles. Athlete’s foot may also cause soggy or peeling areas, burning or stinging sensations, and itching that worsens after removing socks or shoes. In some cases, painful blisters or ulcers that leak fluid may appear. There are three main types of athlete’s foot. Toe web infections usually begin between the fourth and fifth toes and may cause peeling, rash-like redness, and, in severe cases, green discoloration or foul-smelling discharge. Moccasin infections often begin with soreness and dry, cracked skin on the soles and heels and can cause thickened or discolored toenails that loosen or fall off. Vesicular infections involve small, fluid-filled blisters on the soles or other areas of the feet, and may lead to open sores or bacterial infection. A podiatrist can determine the type of athlete’s foot infection and recommend appropriate care. If you have any of these symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

  • Thoroughly washing and drying feet
  • Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
  • Using shower shoes in public showers
  • Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
  • Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

  • Redness
  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Friday, 15 August 2025 00:00

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Tuesday, 12 August 2025 00:00

Diagnosis and Management of Gout

Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood, which forms sharp crystals in the joints and leads to sudden pain, swelling, redness, and warmth. Flare-ups of gout often take place in the big toe. They can make walking difficult and may occur repeatedly, causing damage to joints in the feet and ankles, if left untreated. A podiatrist can diagnose gout by examining the affected area and using imaging or lab tests to rule out other problems, like fractures or other types of arthritis. Gout in the feet can lead to long-term joint damage, tissue changes and deformities. Management of gout includes medication to reduce inflammation and guidance on preventing further flare-ups. A podiatrist can also assess footwear and biomechanics to reduce pressure on affected joints and help preserve foot function.  If you have frequent toe or ankle pain caused by gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist for management of this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Omega Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 05 August 2025 00:00

Recovering From an Achilles Tendon Tear

An Achilles tendon tear happens when the strong band that connects the calf muscles to the heel breaks. This often occurs during sports or sudden movements and may feel like a sharp snap or pop in the back of the ankle. Walking becomes difficult, and pushing off the foot may feel nearly impossible. Most people with this injury begin with non-surgical treatment, such as a boot or cast that holds the foot in place while the tendon heals. However, some notice a firm swelling in the same spot that does not go away over time. This may be a sign of an organized hematoma, which is a collection of old blood trapped under the skin. To understand what is going on, podiatrists often use an MRI scan, which gives a clear view of the tendon and surrounding tissues. If needed, a minimally invasive procedure called arthroscopic debridement to clean the area can be performed. This usually leads to good results. If you notice lingering swelling after an Achilles injury, a visit to a podiatrist is suggested.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Omega Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

  • Inflammation
  • Dull to severe pain
  • Increased blood flow to the tendon
  • Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

  • Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
  • Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

  • Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
  • Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Los Angeles, Huntington Park, and Reseda, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about The Causes, Types, and Treatments of Achilles Tendon Injuries

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